Press Release
NBWA, WSWA Applaud Introduction of Bipartisan Resolution Supporting Independent Alcohol Distribution System
Media contact: Erin Donar | EDonar@nbwa.org | 703-229-3702
Recognize the successful system separating production, distribution and sales of beer, wine and spirits and prioritizing state-based alcohol regulation
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) President and CEO Michelle Korsmo and National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) President and CEO Craig Purser today released the following statement applauding the introduction of H. Res. 285. This bipartisan resolution recognizes 85 years of successful state-based alcohol regulation following the creation of an effective independent distribution system for beer, wine and spirits. The resolution was introduced by Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Sean Duffy (R-WI).
“Americans today enjoy the safest, most diverse beverage alcohol market in the world. This is because of the 85-year record of success of state-based alcohol regulation and the three-tier system of suppliers, distributors and retailers.”
“This tried and true system gives states the power to regulate alcohol within their own borders and ensures a safe and robust marketplace by separating companies that produce or import alcohol, distribute alcohol to licensed retailers and sell alcohol to consumers.”
“With more variety on store shelves than ever before, this bipartisan resolution celebrates the system that has created choice and safety in America’s alcohol market.”
“We thank Representatives Derek Kilmer and Sean Duffy for introducing this important bipartisan resolution that validates America’s regulatory system for beverage alcohol and recognizes its record of accountability, choice and competition. We look forward to its passage in the full House of Representatives.”
Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Sean Duffy (R-WI) on the bipartisan resolution:
“Washington’s growing wine, craft beer and distilling industries have created thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in economic impact in our communities,” said Representative Kilmer (WA-06). “I believe it’s important to recognize how the hospitality industry brings people together and keeps our economy moving,” he added.
“For the past 85 years, state-based alcohol regulation has allowed the industry to thrive and grow, while at the same time ensuring choice and safety for Americans. That’s why I am proud to co-lead this resolution with Congressman Kilmer affirming the effectiveness of state-based alcohol regulation and the three-tier system. I urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to pass this important resolution,” said Representative Duffy (WI-07).
The National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) represents America’s 3,000 independent beer distributors with operations in every state, congressional district and media market across the country. Licensed at the federal and state levels, beer distributors get bottles, cans, cases and kegs from a brewer or importer to stores, restaurants and other licensed retail accounts through a transparent and accountable regulatory system. Distributors build brands of all sizes — from familiar domestic beers to new startup labels and imports from around the world – and generate enormous consumer choice while supporting 141,000 quality jobs in their home communities. Beer distributors work locally to keep communities safe by sponsoring programs to promote responsible consumption, combat drunk driving and work to eliminate underage drinking.
WSWA is the national trade association representing the wholesale tier of the wine and spirits industry, dedicated to advancing the interests and independence of wholesalers, distributors and brokers of wine and spirits. Founded in 1943, WSWA has more than 370 member companies in 50 states and the District of Columbia, and its members distribute more than 80 percent of all wine and spirits sold at wholesale in the U.S. Visit www.wswa.org to learn more